Mini waterproof LED lanterns charge without wires

If you’re in search of a flashlight that can stand up to the elements, or simply looking for an easy way to spruce up your pool for those hot summer nights, check out these rechargeable PVC LED lights. Inspired by a post in Make: Magazine featuring Indestructible LED Lanterns, [John Duffy] decided to take the project one step further.

While he liked Make’s iteration of the waterproof lantern, he thought it would be best to permanently seal the lights for maximum durability. Not satisfied with a one-use light, he equipped the PVC lanterns with a single rechargeable AA battery, step-up circuitry to drive the LED, and an inductive charging coil.

His floating, waterproof lights sport a slightly bigger footprint than their predecessors to house the extra electronics, but we think that’s more than a fair trade off considering they can be charged wirelessly.

Place your Digikey/Mouser/Jameco orders now and check out [John’s] how-to video – you just might get some of these built in time for the weekend!

Even without an explosion, you’ll quickly ruin your battery without any regulation on the charging voltage. For a quick fix, a 1.2V(depending on chemistry) linear voltage regulator between the coil and battery should prevent overcharging.
Overall, Nice idea. Personally I’d replace the 555 with a 6-8 pin microcontroller for lower parts count and flexibility.

Only thing I would change it to ditch the battery and use a capacitor to extend the lifespan of the usefulness without having to ever crack it open. Otherwise, great project. I might make some of these with my kids since they always want to use my big 4D flashlights and drain the batteries.

Neat! I’m going to take this idea and mod it to fit my needs. Hack my solar powered garden stakes into waterproof pool lights. With a downward firing LED, They run off 1 AA, with a small solar cell, and are plenty bright, cheap too.